readathon

[Mike Eisenberg <mike@ericir.syr.edu>]

from:
Jill Patterson,
> Glendora Public Library
> Glendora, CA 91741

> NOTE:  I am NOT a subscriber to LM_NET, so please direct all
> replies to gplccen@class.org.  THANK YOU!
>
> This message has been cross-posted to PUBYAC--sorry for any
> duplication.
>
> My question is this:  Does anyone work in a school situation that
> sponsors some sort of readathon that uses time instead of number
> of books or pages?  I volunteer at a school library and this year
> I am the PTA readathon chair.  In previous years, our readathon was
> always by number of books or pages.  A number of parents complain that
> their slower readers can not complete the program; the principal comes
> from another school that used a time-based program; and the state of
> California is mandating that all programs be equally accessible to all
> children.  The readathon starts in 3 weeks.  Last week, the principal
> requested that I change the program to a time-based system.  The
> school library technician opposes this and has elected to opt out of
> the program, especially since she does it on her own time.
>
> My major concern is how easy it is for students to cheat this way.
> The teachers do NOT monitor the student's reading, the parents do
> sign off.  I would LOVE any advice, suggestions, comments, etc. as
> to how your programs work (or don't work).  What kind of incentives
> do you provide along the way (if any) and do you just trust the child
> or are there safeguards?  Am I worrying too much?
>
> If you reply directly to me, I'll summarize for the list.  And yes,
> I do remember last summer's thread on this subject, but I don't know
> if I can apply it to a school library.
>
> THANK YOU!!!
>
> Jill Patterson,
> Glendora Public Library
> Glendora, CA 91741